End of tenancy cleans have a fixed deadline and someone inspecting the result, which makes them different from an ordinary carpet clean. The aim is simple: get the carpets back as close as possible to the condition recorded at check-in, minus the fair wear and tear that comes from people actually living there.
For tenants moving out
Look at your check-in inventory first. If it describes the carpets as "professionally cleaned" or "clean, no marks", that's the standard you'll be compared against. Walkways, the area in front of the sofa and bedroom doorways are where inspectors usually look first, along with any obvious stains.
A few things that help:
- Book the clean after the removal van has gone, not before.
- Point out any stains in your enquiry so they can be pre-treated properly.
- Leave windows open or the heating on so the carpets are dry for the inspection.
- Keep the invoice and photograph each room afterwards.
If you're worried about your deposit, our guide on end of tenancy carpet cleaning and deposits explains how the rules on deductions generally work.
For landlords and letting agents
Clean carpets photograph better, help a property let faster and give you a clear baseline for the next inventory. Between tenancies, a deep clean also lets you see what's genuine wear and what was just dirt, which matters if you're deciding whether to replace a carpet.
Many local cleaners are used to working with agents: collecting keys, cleaning an empty property and returning keys the same day. If you manage several properties in Kent, ask about regular arrangements in your enquiry.
What an end of tenancy carpet clean includes
It's the same deep carpet cleaning process used in any home, with extra attention on the problem areas tenants and inspectors notice:
- Thorough vacuum, including edges and under radiators
- Pre-treatment of walkways and traffic lanes
- Spot treatment of individual stains
- Hot water extraction and rinse
- Pile grooming so the carpet dries evenly and looks uniform
Stairs, landings and rugs are usually priced on top. If the property has upholstered furniture included in the let, upholstery cleaning can be done on the same visit.
Stains that won't come out
Some marks are permanent: bleach spots, burns, hair dye, nail varnish remover and furniture dents in older carpets. A professional will tell you before cleaning which ones are likely to stay. That's useful information in itself, because it helps you talk to your landlord or agent honestly rather than being surprised at the inspection. For stains and smells, see stain and odour removal.